Through the model of Treatment + Education + Prevention, the hospital treats over 20,000 children annually, educates hundreds of local medical professionals, and prevents thousands of diseases through its Outreach Program. LFHC’s guiding principle is “treat every patient as if your own child.”

Improving children’s health and survival is our top priority in Laos. Many years of widespread conflict and poverty have stalled health care development, and poor public infrastructure combined with high mountainous terrain present a constant barrier for children and families to access high-quality health care.

Children are the most vulnerable and affected by these challenges. It is common for children to die from preventable conditions and treatable diseases, such as malaria, pneumonia, and diarrhea. The prevalence of malnutrition is high, and immunization rates are low. Approximately 64 of every 1,000 children will not live to see their fifth birthday.

The Story:

First Patient, Opening Day 2015

Lao Friends Hospital for Children opened in February 2015 with the intent to establish a locally-sustainable hospital by and for the Lao people.

LFHC phased-in its health care services. First to open was the Outpatient Department, where 47 children were seen on opening day. The hospital now treats more than 20,000 children annually. Our doctors, nurses and staff deliver care to all children with dedication, smiles, and a caring, compassionate attitude.

The hospital also emphasizes education. Our staff instructs family members on such topics as nutrition, vaccinations, breastfeeding support, oral health, family planning, and disease-prevention.

LFHC is the only hospital in northern Laos to offer neonatal services, providing life-saving care for newborn babies that otherwise have no access to proper health care for essential development.

LFHC is developing into an international-standard pediatric hospital, offering such services as: